As Operation Metro Surge continues to impact and put immense strain on so many Minneapolis residents and community members, community and social service organizations are providing resources and mutual aid to those who need it most. The City’s website was recently updated to reflect a list of local foundations and organizations taking monetary donations to support this work, providing food, rental assistance, mutual aid and other resources.

The list on the City Federal Response page includes the following organizations that offer various kinds of assistance with vetted and trusted donation links:

• We Love the Twin Cities
• Greater Twin Cities United Way
• MPLS for MPLS: Meet Minneapolis
• Minneapolis Foundation
• Minnesota Council of Nonprofits

“Our residents have been inspirational,” said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “Despite the invasion of federal agents, we continue to demonstrate what we do best: stand up for our neighbors.”

Avoid scams

Often during crises, bad actors exploit people’s generosity to gather personal or financial information. The City has received reports of phishing attempts online and in-person for solicitations for donations using impacts from Operation Metro Surge in Minneapolis. The City urges awareness of scams when making any financial contributions or seeking legal advice. Residents and community members should remain vigilant against scams and phishing attempts and ensure donations go to legitimate organizations.

• Learn more about phishing scams and how to avoid them

Virtual Resource Center

The City’s federal response page and Virtual Resource Center have connections to food, shelter, legal help and more. They’re constantly updated, with information for residents, community members and businesses. Resources include:

• A list of pharmacies to get prescriptions delivered or discounted when transportation, cost or concerns about leaving the home can make it harder for some residents to get their medicine.
• Report incidents: People can report federal incidents, alleged civil rights violations or potentially unlawful conduct.
  • Federal Action Reporting Form
  • Report suspected rights violations to the ACLU
• Mental health resources: The presence of federal immigration enforcement agents is causing severe strain on many members of our community. Family members being detained or fear of being detained, concerns about leaving home, and loss of income can all lead to mental health needs. 

“Keeping our community safe and responding to the needs of those most impacted by this emergency are our highest priorities, so it is important for us to hear from residents,” said Director Rachel Sayre, Minneapolis Emergency Management. “The Emergency Operations Center is assessing the impacts of this emergency and coordinating the City's response. The negative impacts are profound, and we will continue to coordinate with all our partners to collectively meet community needs, especially for those most affected.”

Keep streets clear

Keeping streets clear is a critical part of the City’s responsibility to protect lives, property and neighborhoods. Blocked streets and makeshift checkpoints are serious concerns for police, fire and emergency medical responders because it can delay response times and restrict access for their vehicles. Neighbors have echoed the City’s public safety concerns about restricted street access.

Recognize City uniforms and vehicles

Another way for people to do their part is to know the difference between multiple law enforcement uniforms and the vehicles they drive. The City’s website has pages dedicated to the different uniforms worn by City personnel, as well as the kinds of vehicles they drive. No one in a City uniform will ever ask for immigration status or participate in any federal immigration enforcement activity. Minneapolis police officers do not wear masks to hide their identity, nor do they lend any vehicles to federal teams.

Minneapolis nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize

Minneapolis neighbors continue to observe federal law enforcement conduct and hold peaceful demonstrations to use their strong collective voice to advocate for their neighbors and stand up for their rights. It is for this reason that The Nation nominated the City of Minneapolis for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. Read the formal letter here, addressed to the Norwegian Nobel Committee that is charged by the Parliament of Norway with selecting the recipient of the Peace Prize.